A grassroots event like no other the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival returns on July 27 and 28, promising an exhilarating weekend of swimming, riding and running action.
Whitsunday Triathlon Club President and Race Director Micky Kimpton said the annual event is now in its 24th year and continues to attract athletes and spectators from around Australia and internationally, showcasing the Whitsundays as a premier destination for sports.
“We have a record field of professional male and female athletes this year along with record entries in the Olympic Distance triathlon and a record juniors’ field on the Saturday afternoon,” he said.
“The 2024 event will deliver a triathlon finishing line experience like no other with Olympic swim legend Susie O’Neill presenting the finisher medals while the voice that has greeted Ironman and 70.3 finishers across the world, Pete Murray will call your finishing chute glory.
“We have also upgraded our already amazing race bag goodies for triathlon entrants with goggles, towel and swim bags included across the different race categories.
“Our aim is to turn back the clock to the good old days and offer the average triathletes a memorable experience on race day and value for money for their entry fee,” Kimpton said.
“The festival also encourages local community engagement with various volunteer opportunities and support roles, fostering a strong sense of local pride and involvement.
“The two-day event features races for all levels, including elite athletes, amateurs, juniors, and relay teams, ensuring an inclusive and competitive atmosphere.
“Thanks to valuable sponsors Corry Cycles, for the first time, we will be giving away two brand new bikes as random draw prizes to junior triathletes, adding an extra element of excitement and reward for our young athletes.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is more than just a sporting event; it's a celebration of sport and community in a unique location, the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
“Council is proud to be a sponsor for this event and it is exciting to attract such a top-quality field of professional triathletes racing here in Airlie Beach.
“This event truly highlights the best of the Whitsundays, and I encourage everyone to come out, support the athletes, and enjoy the festivities."
The junior triathlons commence at 2pm on Saturday afternoon, July 27 followed by the ocean swims at 3.15pm while the main action gets underway on Sunday, July 28 with the Olympics distance, Sprint and Enticer and teams triathlons commencing from 6.30am.
The weekend will culminate in an amazing Celebrations Banquet at the Pier at Coral Sea Marina Resort on Sunday evening.
WHAT: Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival
WHEN: 27-28 July